Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batter Mohammad Kaif made a striking remark about Virat Kohli during the ongoing ODI series between India and South Africa. Kaif stated that Kohli cannot be compelled to participate in domestic white-ball cricket at this stage. Recent reports, however, suggest that Kohli may feature in the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy.
Kaif praised Kohli’s performance in the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, noting how the seasoned batter returned after a month-long break and still scored a brilliant century. He also highlighted Kohli’s aggressive approach, including stepping out of the crease to hit sixes off pacers during the powerplay.
“No Need To Force Kohli Into Vijay Hazare Trophy”- Kaif
Mohammad Kaif emphasized that there was no reason to force Virat Kohli into the Vijay Hazare Trophy given his current form and performance. He further stressed that Kohli should not be treated the same way as other players.
“In white-ball cricket, players do not have to make many changes. Kohli came after 35 days, and see how he played. He hit so many sixes as well. He showed he is the boss in this format. If he can bat like this and not look rusty and dominate bowlers after a gap, then I don’t think you can force him to go play the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The quality is also not high there,” he said on his YouTube channel.
“He can play if he wishes to; you have to leave it to him. You cannot tell him to do something; you can ask him. You should keep the door open for such special players, given the level he is at. He gave that example in Ranchi. Do not treat every player the same way,” he added.
Kohli smashed 135 runs from only 120 balls, featuring 11 fours and seven sixes. This brilliant innings marked his 52nd ODI century, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar’s record for the most hundreds in a single format.
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